Participates in the Gospel of Jesus—Romans 16:21-24

"Timothy, my fellow worker, sends his greetings to you, as do Lucius, Jason and Sosipater, my relatives. I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord. Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings. Erastus, who is the city's director of public works, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings. [May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you. Amen] (Romans 16:21-24)

Except for Timothy, not much detail is given about these men that Paul shared his life with. Several accounts of people with these names are found in the book of Acts, it is possible that these are one and the same. If this is true then it paints a wonderful picture of how the apostle Paul ministered. He would surround himself with converts to Christianity and disciple them in the Lord for several years.

Although we do not have much account of their lives we do know that Timothy was in charge of the church at Ephesus after his time with the apostle. Paul saw to it that he was trained and equipped for the task at hand. After their time learning from Paul these men went on to big things making a difference for the kingdom of God.

Another interesting piece of information that most people do not realize is that Paul dictated this letter to Tertius. He is actually the one who physically penned this letter as Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, instructed him on the words to write.

What is amazing about these few verses is that it shows the participation in the gospel of Jesus. Once these men came to know the Lord, most likely through Paul, they left everything they had to pursue it. I'm sure they left homes and families to be trained and equipped by Paul. Even though we just have a record of their names, these men were great examples of faith that will always be remembered every time this book of Romans is read.

Today, may you take encouragement from these words as you also make a difference for Christ in your homes, work places and spheres of influences. Remembering that the difference you make is eternal and like these men, not limited to your time here on earth. What you are remembered for can make a lasting impression for the years to come.